Lake season is finally here! It's that time of year where you can finally get out of the house and spend your evenings around the fire with friends and family. On the weekends, you can once again lounge by the lake, catch some fish and have a cold drink.
If you're investing in new outdoor furniture, you'll want to make sure you purchase durable items that will last well into the future. Before you head to your local home furniture store, learn more about what types of materials can withstand outdoor conditions.
Aluminum or wicker?
If you're looking for an affordable outdoor furniture set that's both comfortable and attractive, aluminum and wicker are two of the best options. But not all types of aluminum and wicker are ideal for outdoor use.
First, consider aluminum. Those aluminum folding chairs you can buy on the cheap at a big-box store won't last long if they get damp. Even prolonged exposure to the morning dew will eventually cause rust deposits to form along the chair's frame.
You should look for pieces made with rust-free aluminum. Not only will these pieces last longer, but they also tend look more attractive. For example, this chaise lounge by Ashley is made with rust-free aluminum with a sleek black finish.
As for wicker, there are two types: regular and all-weather resin. According to Better Homes & Gardens Magazine, regular wicker should only be used in covered outdoor areas and must be kept dry.
All-weather resin wicker, on the other hand, can withstand outdoor wear-and-tear much better. For example, the Carmadelia collection by Ashley features resin wicker that looks fantastic out on the patio.
What about outdoor furniture cushions?
Cushions are the part of the furniture most likely to experience wear-and-tear from outdoor exposure, so it's important that you choose a synthetic material that won't fade easily and is resistant to water exposure. Solution-dyed polyester is your best option.
Regular polyester is dyed after the initial solution is spun into fabric. Because the dye is applied only to the surface, it's prone to fading. Solution-dyed polyester, however, is dyed while in liquid form and is fully saturated. Therefore, the colors last longer and are more weather-resistant.
The Loughran collection by Ashley is made with rust-free aluminum, resin wicker and Nuvella solution-dyed polyester fabric, so you know it will last a long time. Storing your outdoor furniture cushions in a dark, dry location will extend their beautiful appearance for years.
Now that you know what kind of material to look for, head to Arwood's Furniture & Mattress for the largest selection of Missouri furniture. Family owned and operated, our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect outdoor furniture in time for lake season.
